YMCA offers tips for the new year

The YMCA of Coastal Georgia is offering no joiner’s fee for anyone who becomes a member at any of its locations this month.

For the Y, one of the most important resolutions is to resolve to make positive changes that strengthen individuals as well as entire communities.

While it’s tempting to make big goals, it’s essential to start small. Set goals that are attainable, easy to sustain and lead to big benefits over time. Here are five New Year’s resolutions the YMCA of Coastal Georgia recommends for 2014:

• Eat healthy: Make water your drink of choice (supplemented by age-appropriate portions of 100 percent fruit juices and low-fat milk) and eat more fruits and vegetables. Keep it interesting and create some variety by mixing and matching fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables.

• Commit to community service: Giving back and supporting neighbors can benefit everyone involved. Not only is it a personally rewarding experience to help others in need, but it’s also a way to meet new people or discover an interest. Find an opportunity in your community, such as cleaning the neighborhood park or distributing food at a local food bank.

• Unplug from technology: Limit screen time (television, video games, computer, etc.) and instead set aside an hour or two for activities. If weather permits, go for a walk, bike ride, trip to the park, or have a game night at home with family or friends.

• Be physically active: It’s important for children to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day (30 minutes for adults). Incorporate physical activity into your daily routines and spend more time walking to places instead of driving to improve your health and well-being.

• Put extras to good use: Do you have extra canned goods or clothes that could benefit others in need? Clean out your pantry, closet or attic and donate extra items to homeless shelters or community outreach programs.

To learn more about getting involved or general membership information, visit the local YMCA of Coastal Georgia branch. To locate the nearest Y, visit YMCAofcoastalga.org.